10425769

Media Navigation Recommendations

PublishedSeptember 24, 2019
Assigneenot available in USPTO data we have
Technical Abstract

Patent Claims
20 claims

Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.

Claim 1

Original Legal Text

1. A non-transitory computer readable medium storing instructions executable by a processor circuit to implement a system to provide media navigation recommendations, wherein the instructions, when executed by the processor circuit, cause the system to: access navigation data indicative of sequencing and spatial relationships among a plurality of media hotspots, with each hotspot being included within a medium and including a spatial address; receive, via a network, data indicative of a mobile device's detection of a covert target hotspot and to display the covert target hotspot via a display of the mobile device; determine based on the navigation data a recommendation for navigation to an associated hotspot that is an immediate predecessor or successor relative to the covert target hotspot; and provide the recommendation to the mobile device for display.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to a system for providing media navigation recommendations based on spatial relationships between media hotspots. The problem addressed is the lack of intuitive navigation guidance within interactive media environments, where users may struggle to discover or sequence content effectively. The system uses a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing instructions that, when executed, enable a processor to access navigation data defining the sequencing and spatial relationships among multiple media hotspots. Each hotspot is embedded within a medium and assigned a spatial address, allowing precise location tracking. The system receives data from a mobile device detecting a covert target hotspot—one that is not visibly highlighted or explicitly marked—and displays it on the device. By analyzing the navigation data, the system identifies an associated hotspot that is either an immediate predecessor or successor to the covert target hotspot, generating a navigation recommendation. This recommendation is then transmitted to the mobile device for display, guiding the user to the next relevant hotspot in the sequence. The system enhances user experience by dynamically suggesting navigation paths based on spatial and sequential relationships, ensuring seamless content discovery.

Claim 2

Original Legal Text

2. The non-transitory computer readable medium of claim 1 , wherein the instructions trigger an information display relating to a subject of the medium at the display of the mobile device when each hotspot is detected by way of a camera of the mobile device, wherein the covert target hotspot is imperceptible to a naked human eye.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to augmented reality systems that use covert hotspots to trigger information displays on mobile devices. The technology addresses the challenge of providing contextual information without altering the physical appearance of an environment. The system employs a non-transitory computer-readable medium containing instructions that, when executed, enable a mobile device to detect covert hotspots using its camera. These hotspots are imperceptible to the naked eye but are detectable by the device's imaging system. When a hotspot is detected, the system triggers the display of relevant information about the subject associated with the hotspot on the mobile device's screen. The covert nature of the hotspots ensures that the environment remains visually unchanged while still enabling interactive augmented reality experiences. The system may also include a method for generating and embedding these hotspots into physical media or environments, ensuring they are only detectable by devices with the appropriate software. This approach enhances user engagement by providing seamless access to contextual information without requiring visible markers or alterations to the physical space.

Claim 3

Original Legal Text

3. The non-transitory computer readable medium of claim 1 , wherein the recommendation includes instructions to present a directional arrow in the display of the mobile device, the arrow to point from the covert target hotspot toward the associated hotspot.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to a system for guiding a user toward a target wireless hotspot using directional indicators on a mobile device. The problem addressed is the difficulty of locating a specific hotspot, such as a covert or hidden access point, in an environment with multiple available networks. The solution involves a mobile device that detects nearby hotspots and identifies a target hotspot, then provides visual guidance to the user to navigate toward it. The system includes a processor that executes instructions to analyze signal strength and other data to determine the direction of the target hotspot relative to the user's current position. The mobile device then displays a directional arrow on its screen, pointing from the user's location toward the target hotspot. This arrow helps the user move in the correct direction to improve signal reception or connect to the desired network. The system may also account for obstacles or interference that could affect signal quality. The invention improves user experience by simplifying the process of locating and connecting to specific wireless networks, particularly in environments where multiple hotspots are present.

Claim 4

Original Legal Text

4. The non-transitory computer readable medium of claim 1 , wherein the instructions cause the mobile device to utilize the recommendation to cause presentation of a directional arrow in the display of the mobile device, the arrow to point from the covert target hotspot toward the associated hotspot.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to mobile device navigation systems that guide users toward wireless network hotspots, particularly in scenarios where the hotspots are not easily visible or are obscured. The problem addressed is the difficulty users face in locating and connecting to wireless networks when the hotspots are hidden or their signals are weak, making manual discovery inefficient. The system uses a mobile device to detect and analyze wireless network signals, including those from covert or obscured hotspots. It generates recommendations based on signal strength, proximity, and other factors to determine the best path toward an accessible hotspot. The device then displays a directional arrow on its screen, visually guiding the user from the covert hotspot toward a more accessible one. This arrow dynamically updates as the user moves, ensuring continuous guidance until the target hotspot is reached. The invention improves upon existing solutions by providing real-time, visual navigation assistance, reducing the time and effort required to locate and connect to wireless networks in challenging environments. The system is particularly useful in indoor settings, crowded areas, or locations with multiple overlapping signals where manual hotspot selection is impractical. The directional arrow simplifies the process, making it more intuitive for users to navigate toward the best available connection.

Claim 5

Original Legal Text

5. The non-transitory computer readable medium of claim 1 , wherein the instructions further cause the system to determine an explicit path through a subset of the plurality of hotspots, and to provide the path with the recommendation as part of the display.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to a system for generating and displaying recommendations for navigating through a network of wireless hotspots, such as Wi-Fi access points. The problem addressed is the need for users to efficiently traverse multiple hotspots while maintaining connectivity, particularly in environments where seamless transitions between access points are required. The system analyzes the spatial distribution and signal strength of available hotspots to identify optimal paths for movement. It determines an explicit route through a subset of these hotspots, ensuring continuous connectivity as the user moves. The path is then provided as part of a visual recommendation, guiding the user through the network. This approach improves reliability and reduces disruptions in connectivity, which is critical for applications like indoor navigation, asset tracking, or IoT device management. The system may also consider additional factors such as signal interference, user preferences, or network load to refine the path selection. The recommendation is displayed in a user-friendly format, allowing for real-time adjustments based on changing conditions. This solution enhances mobility and connectivity in environments where multiple hotspots are deployed, such as large buildings, campuses, or industrial facilities.

Claim 6

Original Legal Text

6. The non-transitory computer readable medium of claim 1 , wherein the instructions further cause the system to: determine a plurality of subject-specific path options involving subsets of the plurality of hotspots, and to provide the options to the mobile device for display; and responsive to a receipt of a request for a first subject-specific path from the options, provide the first path including the recommendation.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to a computer-implemented system for generating and displaying personalized navigation paths for a user, particularly in environments with multiple points of interest or "hotspots." The system addresses the challenge of efficiently guiding users through locations with numerous potential destinations, such as museums, campuses, or large venues, by dynamically creating customized routes based on user preferences, time constraints, or other factors. The system operates by first identifying a plurality of hotspots within a given area, which may include attractions, services, or other points of interest. It then determines multiple subject-specific path options, each involving different subsets of these hotspots, tailored to the user's needs. These options are transmitted to a mobile device for display, allowing the user to select from the available routes. Upon receiving a request for a specific path, the system provides the chosen route, which includes recommendations for navigation, such as optimal sequences, estimated times, or additional contextual information. The invention enhances user experience by offering flexible, personalized navigation solutions that adapt to individual preferences and constraints, improving efficiency and engagement in environments with complex or numerous destinations. The system leverages computational methods to dynamically generate and refine path options, ensuring relevance and usability.

Claim 7

Original Legal Text

7. The non-transitory computer readable medium of claim 1 , wherein the covert target hotspot and the associated hotspot are included within the same medium.

Plain English Translation

A system and method for covert data transmission involves embedding hidden data within a wireless network environment. The technology addresses the challenge of securely transmitting information without detection by unauthorized parties. The system creates a covert target hotspot that operates alongside an associated hotspot, both of which are included within the same physical or logical medium. The covert hotspot is designed to be indistinguishable from the associated hotspot to casual observers, allowing data to be transmitted covertly. The system may use techniques such as signal modulation, timing adjustments, or other wireless communication methods to embed hidden data within the normal operation of the network. The associated hotspot provides legitimate network services while the covert hotspot enables secure, undetectable data transfer. This approach ensures that the covert communication remains hidden from standard network monitoring tools, making it suitable for applications requiring stealthy data exchange. The system may be implemented in various wireless communication standards, including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or other radio frequency-based protocols. The embedded covert hotspot allows for secure communication without altering the user experience of the associated hotspot.

Claim 8

Original Legal Text

8. The non-transitory computer readable medium of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of media hotspots are distributed across a plurality of media, and wherein the covert target hotspot is included within a first medium among the plurality of media, and the associated hotspot is included within a second medium among the plurality of media.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to a computer-readable medium storing instructions for a system that processes media hotspots, which are interactive elements embedded within digital media. The system identifies a covert target hotspot within a first medium and an associated hotspot within a second medium, where the hotspots are distributed across multiple media types. The covert target hotspot is designed to be hidden or less noticeable, while the associated hotspot is more prominent. When a user interacts with the covert target hotspot, the system triggers an action linked to the associated hotspot in the second medium. This interaction may involve cross-referencing metadata or timestamps to ensure synchronization between the two hotspots. The system may also track user engagement with these hotspots to analyze behavior or personalize content. The invention improves user interaction by enabling seamless transitions between different media while maintaining a covert or subtle interaction mechanism. The technology is useful in applications like interactive advertising, educational content, or multimedia storytelling, where discrete user engagement is desired.

Claim 9

Original Legal Text

9. The non-transitory computer readable medium of claim 1 , wherein each of the plurality of media hotspots is covert, such that the plurality of media hotspots are imperceptible to a naked human eye.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to a computer-readable medium storing instructions for generating and managing media hotspots in a digital environment. The technology addresses the challenge of embedding interactive elements within media content without disrupting the user experience. The system creates multiple media hotspots that are covert, meaning they are imperceptible to the naked human eye. These hotspots are embedded within digital content, such as images or videos, and remain undetectable to viewers while still enabling interactions when triggered by specific conditions or user actions. The covert nature of these hotspots allows for seamless integration into media, preserving the original content's aesthetic while adding functionality. The system may also include mechanisms for detecting user interactions with these hotspots, such as touch, hover, or gaze tracking, to activate associated actions like displaying additional information, navigating to a different section, or initiating a transaction. The covert hotspots can be dynamically adjusted based on user behavior or context, ensuring relevance and minimizing visual clutter. This approach enhances user engagement by providing interactive elements without altering the visual presentation of the media.

Claim 10

Original Legal Text

10. The non-transitory computer readable medium of claim 1 , wherein each of the plurality of media hotspots is covert such that the plurality of media hotspots is imperceptible to a naked human eye from a plurality of angles and distances.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to a computer-readable medium storing instructions for generating and displaying media hotspots in a digital environment. The technology addresses the problem of intrusive or visually distracting media overlays, which can disrupt user experience by being overly prominent or noticeable. The solution involves creating media hotspots that are covert, meaning they are imperceptible to the naked human eye from multiple angles and distances. These hotspots are embedded within digital content, such as images or videos, and remain hidden until triggered by a specific user action or interaction. The covert nature ensures that the hotspots do not interfere with the natural viewing experience while still allowing for interactive elements to be accessed when needed. The system dynamically adjusts the visibility of these hotspots based on environmental factors, such as lighting conditions or viewing distance, to maintain their covert status. This approach enhances user engagement by providing seamless access to additional media content without compromising the aesthetic or functional integrity of the primary digital display. The invention is particularly useful in applications like augmented reality, digital signage, and interactive advertising, where unobtrusive yet accessible media overlays are desired.

Claim 11

Original Legal Text

11. A system to provide media navigation recommendations, comprising: a request engine, to access navigation data indicative of sequencing and spatial relationships among a plurality of media hotspots, with each hotspot being included within a medium and including a spatial address; a detection data engine, to receive, via a network, data indicative of a mobile device's detection of a covert target hotspot via a camera and to provide a display of the covert target hotspot via a display of the mobile device; a determination engine to determine based on the navigation data a recommendation for navigation to an associated hotspot that is an immediate predecessor or successor relative to the covert target hotspot; a recommendation engine, to, responsive to the determination, provide the recommendation to the mobile device for display via the display of the mobile device; and wherein the recommendation includes instructions for presentation of directional information in the display, and further wherein each of the engines and the mobile device include circuitry.

Plain English Translation

This system provides media navigation recommendations by analyzing spatial relationships between media hotspots within a medium, such as a book, video, or interactive environment. Each hotspot includes a spatial address and is detected covertly by a mobile device's camera. The system includes a request engine that accesses navigation data, which defines the sequencing and spatial relationships among multiple hotspots. A detection data engine receives data from the mobile device indicating detection of a covert target hotspot and displays it on the device's screen. A determination engine then identifies an associated hotspot that is either an immediate predecessor or successor to the covert target hotspot based on the navigation data. A recommendation engine generates and sends a navigation recommendation to the mobile device, including directional instructions for reaching the associated hotspot. The system ensures seamless navigation between hotspots by leveraging spatial and sequential relationships, enhancing user interaction with media. All components, including the mobile device, operate using dedicated circuitry. This approach improves media navigation by providing context-aware recommendations based on detected hotspots, reducing user effort in locating related content.

Claim 12

Original Legal Text

12. The system of claim 11 , wherein the plurality of media hotspots are distributed across a plurality of media, and wherein the covert target hotspot is included within a first medium among the plurality of media, and the associated hotspot is included within a second medium among the plurality of media.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to a system for distributing media hotspots across multiple media types to enhance user engagement or tracking. The system includes a plurality of media hotspots embedded within different media, such as images, videos, or documents. These hotspots are interactive elements that trigger actions when selected, such as displaying additional content, redirecting to a webpage, or collecting user data. A key feature is the inclusion of a covert target hotspot within one medium and an associated hotspot within a different medium. The covert target hotspot is designed to be less noticeable or hidden within its medium, while the associated hotspot is more visible or prominently placed in another medium. When a user interacts with the associated hotspot, the system may reveal or activate the covert target hotspot, creating a cross-media interaction. This approach can be used for marketing, user behavior analysis, or interactive content delivery. The system may also include a tracking module to monitor user interactions with the hotspots, allowing for data collection on engagement patterns across different media. The distribution of hotspots across multiple media types enables dynamic and layered interactions, improving user experience or providing insights into user behavior. The covert nature of the target hotspot ensures that interactions remain subtle until triggered by the associated hotspot.

Claim 13

Original Legal Text

13. The system of claim 11 , wherein the determination engine is to receive data indicative of relative popularity of the plurality of media hotspots according to user preferences or user navigation among the media hotspots, and determine the recommendation based on the relative popularity data.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to a system for recommending media hotspots, which are specific points of interest within media content, such as video or audio streams. The system addresses the challenge of efficiently guiding users to relevant sections of media content by analyzing user behavior and preferences to generate personalized recommendations. The system includes a determination engine that processes data reflecting the relative popularity of media hotspots. This data is derived from user preferences, such as explicit ratings or bookmarks, as well as implicit signals like navigation patterns, such as how often users skip to or linger on certain sections. The engine uses this popularity data to rank and recommend the most relevant hotspots to individual users, improving content discovery and engagement. The system may also include a user interface that displays the recommended hotspots, allowing users to quickly access the most popular or personally relevant sections of the media. The recommendations are dynamically updated based on real-time user interactions, ensuring that the suggestions remain relevant over time. This approach enhances user experience by reducing the time spent searching for interesting content and increasing overall satisfaction with the media platform.

Claim 14

Original Legal Text

14. The system of claim 11 , wherein the recommendation is a first recommendation and the determination engine is to: determine identity of a first user at the mobile device that is interacting with the display; receive a second recommendation for a hotspot, the second recommendation made by a second user that is a social media friend of the first user; and determine the first recommendation based on the second recommendation.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to a system for generating personalized recommendations for wireless network hotspots based on social media connections. The problem addressed is the difficulty users face in finding reliable and relevant hotspots, especially in unfamiliar locations, without relying solely on generic location-based data. The system includes a recommendation engine that generates initial hotspot recommendations based on factors such as signal strength, user preferences, and historical usage. A determination engine further refines these recommendations by analyzing social media connections. Specifically, the system identifies a user interacting with a mobile device and determines their social media friends. If a friend has previously recommended a hotspot, the system incorporates that recommendation into the user's personalized list. This ensures that recommendations are influenced by trusted social connections, improving relevance and reliability. The system dynamically adjusts recommendations in real-time as new data, including friend recommendations, is received. This approach enhances user experience by leveraging social trust networks to provide more accurate and contextually appropriate hotspot suggestions.

Claim 15

Original Legal Text

15. The system of claim 11 , wherein the determination engine is to receive data indicative of a time budget for a user, and wherein the recommendation is determined based upon the time budget.

Plain English Translation

A system for generating personalized recommendations based on a user's available time budget. The system operates in the domain of time management and productivity enhancement, addressing the problem of efficiently allocating limited time to tasks or activities that align with user preferences and constraints. The system includes a determination engine that processes user data, including a specified time budget, to generate tailored recommendations. The time budget represents the maximum duration the user is willing to allocate to a particular activity or set of activities. The determination engine uses this budget to filter or prioritize recommendations, ensuring they fit within the user's available time. The system may also incorporate additional user preferences, historical data, or contextual factors to refine the recommendations. By integrating time constraints into the recommendation process, the system helps users optimize their time allocation, improving productivity and reducing decision fatigue. The system may be applied in various contexts, such as scheduling, task management, or content consumption, where time efficiency is a critical factor.

Claim 16

Original Legal Text

16. The system of claim 15 , wherein the determination engine is to receive the data indicative of the time budget from another device, the data being associated with calendar information of the user stored on the other device, and is to determine the recommendation for the navigation to the associated hotspot based on the navigation data and the time budget.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to a navigation system that provides recommendations for visiting hotspots based on a user's available time. The system addresses the problem of users struggling to efficiently plan visits to points of interest within a limited timeframe, such as during a short trip or commute. The system includes a determination engine that receives navigation data, such as traffic conditions, distances, and travel times, to generate recommendations for navigating to nearby hotspots. The engine also receives a time budget from another device, such as a smartphone or calendar application, which reflects the user's available time based on their schedule. The time budget is derived from calendar information stored on the other device, ensuring the recommendations align with the user's real-time availability. The system then determines the optimal navigation route to the hotspot, considering both the navigation data and the time budget, to maximize the user's experience within their constrained time. This approach enhances decision-making by dynamically adjusting recommendations based on real-time constraints and user preferences.

Claim 17

Original Legal Text

17. A method to provide media navigation recommendations, comprising: acquiring, via a graphic user interface, establishment data that specifies a plurality of media hotspots to be incorporated within a medium and receiving spatial addresses for hotspots, such that the establishment data is interpretable by interpretive programming of a mobile device to detect a covert target hotspot among the plurality of media hotspots; and acquiring, via a graphic user interface, navigation data indicative of sequencing and spatial relationships among the plurality of media hotspots, such that the navigation data is usable by a server to determine a recommendation for navigation from the covert target hotspot to an associated hotspot.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to a system for providing media navigation recommendations within a physical or digital environment. The technology addresses the challenge of guiding users through media-rich spaces by dynamically recommending navigation paths between interactive hotspots, which may include physical markers, digital triggers, or embedded media elements. The system acquires establishment data that defines multiple media hotspots and their spatial addresses, enabling a mobile device to detect a covert target hotspot—one that is not explicitly visible or advertised to the user. Additionally, the system collects navigation data that specifies sequencing and spatial relationships between hotspots, allowing a server to generate context-aware recommendations for moving from the covert target to an associated hotspot. This approach enhances user engagement by dynamically suggesting optimal paths based on predefined spatial logic, improving navigation efficiency in environments like museums, augmented reality experiences, or interactive installations. The solution leverages interpretive programming on mobile devices to process hotspot data and server-side logic to compute navigation recommendations, ensuring seamless integration with existing media ecosystems.

Claim 18

Original Legal Text

18. The method of claim 17 , further comprising acquiring via a graphic user interface a description of a directional indicator to be displayed at the mobile device, the directional indicator to point to the associated hotspot, and further wherein the associated hotspot is covert.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to mobile device navigation systems that guide users to covert hotspots, which are locations that are not openly advertised or visible. The problem addressed is the need for discreet navigation to such hotspots, where traditional mapping or directional indicators may not be suitable due to security or privacy concerns. The system provides a method for a mobile device to determine its position relative to a covert hotspot and display a directional indicator pointing toward it. The directional indicator is acquired through a graphical user interface, allowing customization of how the hotspot is visually represented. The system ensures that the hotspot remains covert by avoiding public mapping services or overt markers, instead relying on private or encrypted data to guide the user. The method may also include determining the mobile device's position using alternative techniques, such as signal strength analysis or proximity sensors, to enhance accuracy without revealing the hotspot's location to unauthorized parties. The invention is particularly useful in scenarios where discretion is critical, such as secure facilities, restricted areas, or private networks.

Claim 19

Original Legal Text

19. The method of claim 17 , wherein each of the plurality of media hotspots is covert such that the plurality of hotspots is imperceptible to a human eye.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to a system for distributing media content through covert hotspots that are imperceptible to the human eye. The system addresses the challenge of delivering media content in public or private spaces without visible infrastructure, ensuring seamless and unobtrusive access. The method involves deploying multiple media hotspots that operate covertly, meaning they are not detectable by human vision, while still enabling devices to connect and receive media content. These hotspots may be embedded in surfaces, objects, or environments in a way that avoids visual detection. The system may also include a network of such hotspots that dynamically adjust their coverage to optimize content delivery. The covert nature of the hotspots allows for discreet media distribution, making it suitable for applications where aesthetics or security are concerns, such as in retail, hospitality, or smart city environments. The method ensures that media content is accessible to authorized devices while remaining hidden from casual observation.

Claim 20

Original Legal Text

20. The method of claim 17 , further including: receiving data indicative of a time budget from the mobile device, the data being associated with calendar information of a user stored on the mobile device; and determining a recommendation for navigation to the associated hotspot based on the navigation data and the time budget.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to mobile device navigation systems that provide recommendations for visiting hotspots, such as points of interest, based on user-specific time constraints. The problem addressed is the lack of personalized navigation recommendations that account for a user's available time, leading to inefficient travel planning. The system receives data from a mobile device indicating a time budget, which is derived from calendar information stored on the device. This time budget represents the user's available time for travel. The system then analyzes navigation data, which includes real-time traffic conditions, distance, and estimated travel time to the hotspot. Using this data, the system determines a recommendation for navigating to the hotspot, ensuring the user can reach the destination within their available time. The recommendation may include optimized routes, estimated arrival times, or alternative destinations if the original hotspot is not feasible within the given time budget. The system dynamically adjusts recommendations based on changes in real-time conditions, such as traffic delays or route modifications, to ensure the user's time budget is respected. This approach enhances travel efficiency by aligning navigation suggestions with the user's schedule, reducing wasted time and improving overall user experience.

Patent Metadata

Filing Date

Unknown

Publication Date

September 24, 2019

Inventors

Sriganesh Madhvanath
Sandeep Matti Prabhu

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